Integrated Pest Management for Arborists: Implementation of a Pilot Program

Abstract

During the 1982 growing season a Maryland arborist company cooperated with the Department of Entomology, University of Maryland to determine the effectiveness and commercial feasibility of an IPM program compared to a traditional arborist cover spray program. Over 11,000 plants on 26 client properties that previously had received yearly 3 cover sprays, were switched to a biweekly plant monitoring program. The 20 most common plants composed 70% of the total plants monitored. Of the many potential pests encountered (excluding plant diseases) only 25 types reached pest status and required treatment that consisted of spot spraying with pesticides or hand removal. Time spent monitoring, treating, and interacting with clients averaged 20 minutes for % acre to 50 minutes for 4 acres. Pesticide volume sprayed was reduced by 94% compared to 3 general cover sprays. The accuracy of cover spray timing versus monitoring treatments for selected pests are discussed and figured for the gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar), Japanese weevil {Pseudocneorhlnus biifasciatus), and azalea lacebug (Stephanitis pyrioides).